Copenhagen intro.The Danish national capital, Copenhagen, is the gateway to Scandinavia for most mainland European visitors. Church steeples are still the highest structures in Scandinavia's biggest city, situated on Amage and Sealand islands, but most Copenhagen hotels are situated in the Vesterbro and Indre By areas. Advance booking is essential in this historic city, whose numerous attractions include the world's two oldest operating amusement parks and two oldest roller coasters. Most visitors are familiar with the Tivoli Gardens and its adjoining lake surrounded by miniature gardens. However, the even older Dyrehavsbakken park has a less touristy atmosphere in the middle of a serene beech forest. Visitors can sample some of Denmark's most famous beer at the Carlsberg Visitors Centre. The son of Carlsberg's founder established both the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek museum and the bronze Little Mermaid statue next to the bustling city harbour. The Danish royal family live in four identical palaces called Amalienborg, but the Rosenborg Palace is especially popular for its royal history museum and tranquil King's Garden. The local zoo is among the world's oldest.Author: Graham Dewe